Get Organised in 7 Steps

Getting organised is easier said than done, and when faced with a pile of papers, clothes, toys, or lists, it can be all too easy to bury your head in the sand. Ignoring the problem, however is silly, so tackle the issues head on with the following tips, and turn that mountain into a molehill.

Method

Write it all down. Carrying a notebook (or writing it all down on your smartphone), helps capturing ideas or things to do. Later. transfer to a calender, or to-do list and feel great when you cross them off.

Reduce before organising. Don't waste time sorting out 50 items in your wardrobe or 20 jobs on your list. First, get rid of what you don't wear and cross off anything you can't achieve. By reducing your pile or list, you simplify your life.

Get an in-tray. Put all bills, appointment, and invitations into an in-tray then empty it once a week, deciding what to do with each one - bin file, to-do list, or action straightaway.

Give everything a place. Have a place for everyday objects - house keys, car keys, pens, toys - get used to putting them away. It will save sorting them out later.

Put limits on housework. Use a timer to help you. When the timer beeps, move on. Chores will feel less of a drag, and you'll have more time for enjoyment.

Develop a routine. Identify the activity patterns in your life: laundry, paperwork, etc. Try to do things on the same day each week. Before long, it's a routine.

Keep it up. Stick to your routines and they will soon be second nature leaving you more time for fun and family.

I know more than anyone, how hard it is to tackle 'the mess' in every aspect of your life, but it is worth taking it head on because you save time and unnecessary stress. I can assure you, knowing where that essential piece of paper which proves you have a license, have your degree, or states your nationality, is, will save a lot of time and potential lecturing from your friends and family as they admonish you for being so un-organised.

Show everyone you're in control of your life - an adult - and get your filing, cleaning, and time control hat on, because being organised is essential to a happier, stress-free life.